Almost a century ago now, the Holy Spirit touched-down in Los Angeles in an amazing outpouring that sparked revivals in many other U.S. cities - even around the world.

The 1906 revival that came to be known simply as "Azusa Street" did much more than just renew the "Pentecostal movement" - it was a rebirth of hunger-for-the-Lord that continues to be expressed in congregations across denominational lines. It was a time of unity in prayer, worship and fellowship that is an example for us today, of the fact that, in Christ, there is neither Jew nor Greek, male nor female, black nor white; but just fellow Believers in the Lord.

Below is information on some of the 100th anniversary activities planned in the Los Angeles area, as well as some of the history behind the Azusa outpouring.

Beginning on Saturday, April 22nd, 2006 the centennial celebration of the Azusa Street revival will begin with a procession and rally starting at the Bonnie Brae house and ending at the historic Azusa Street site.

Monday April 24th will begin many different sessions of prayer, training, spe aking and equipping, in conjunction with the Azusa centennial, held in various venues including the Los Angeles Convention Center. The week-long celebration will conclude on Saturday April 29th at the Memorial Coliseum.

To find out more about the Azusa Street Centennial Celebration, log onto: www.azusastreet100.net .

A Little History

The outpouring of healings, spiritual renewal and salvations on Azusa St. began when African American pastor William Seymour was asked to preach at a small holiness congregation in L.A., pastored by Julia Hutchins. Seymour's message of receiving the baptism in the Holy Spirit and speaking in tongues was not appreciated by Hutchins however, who later locked the church doors on the pastor she had invited. (Pictured: William Seymour)

But Seymour remained steadfast in what he believed God was doing and, joined by oth ers in the congregation who were hungry for a move of God, he began conducting prayer and worship services out of a couple's home on Bonnie Brae street. The official Azusa street centennial website has the account of what happened next…

…On April 9, 1906, a breakthrough occurred as Edward Lee was baptized with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in tongues after Seymour had prayed with him. The two then made their way to the Asbery home. There they had a song, prayers and testimonies, followed by Seymour's sermon using Acts 2:4 as a text. Following the sermon, Lee raised his hands and began to speak in tongues. The Spirit of God moved upon those attending and six others began to speak in tongues that same evening. Jennie Moore, who would later marry William Seymour, was among them. She became the first woman in Los Angeles to receive the Spirit-baptism. She then began to sing in tongues and play the piano under the power of God, having never played the piano prior. (MOR E...)